Health Challenge: Find Your Zen Place for a Few Minutes Today (The Amazing Thing It Can Do for Your Health)

Honestly, I'm really not a zen-and-meditation kind of gal. I can appreciate it, for sure, but if you came over to my house would you see me cross-legged with my eyes closed? Nope. Whatever you call it--quietness, prayer, reflection or meditation--here's why finding your "zen place" is so incredibly healthy...

Past research has linked meditation with a more positive well-being, and those good feelings may trigger real, biological changes in your cells--for the better. University of California, San Francisco, researchers say that people who meditate have higher levels of something called telomerase in their bodies, an enzyme important for the long-term health of cells in the body.

I believe it! Whenever I take a moment to step away from my computer, my blackberry, etc., and close my eyes for a few minutes of peace, I feel so much better. And, you don't have to spend to much time--just 2-3 minutes often does the trick to recharge/unwind. Try focusing on something wonderful in your life, something that makes you happy; pray; or run through a list of things you're grateful for.